10 Easy Steps to Create a Secure Shelter with a Tarp
A wild camping getaway? Need an emergency shelter? With a simple tarp (like the All Weather Shelter), you have a thousand possibilities to rest and protect yourself, without fearing the wind or the rain. You don't need trees spaced at a precise distance, as often required with this type of shelter: it is designed to give you great freedom of arrangement according to your needs, using simple walking sticks. More basic models, such as the Snugpak A-Shelter, need well-positioned trees, but this version allows you to do without them and build an almost tent-like enclosed space anywhere.
Of course, your shelter can also be useful for a break during sunny hikes. With time and experience, you will find it very easy to use this type of product for more elaborate setups, allowing you to protect yourself in just a few moments. Follow the 10 steps below, and you will know how to build a shelter to rest, even when the external conditions are not favorable.
1. Prepare the Shelter
Lay your AWS flat, leaving the loops along the edges easily accessible. First, make sure the tarp is upside down, meaning the insulating layer is facing the ground. When you fold it, you should see the fabric side. Secure one-third of the shelter to the ground; this will become your sleeping area protected on three sides. Orient the back of the AWS at a 45-degree angle to the wind, allowing it to slide over the shelter and preventing rain from entering.
2. Fold the Rest of the Tarp
Fold two-thirds of the AWS into a single panel, so that it covers the base you just secured.
3. Mark with Your Walking Sticks
Starting from the folded side, place your sticks on the shelter. Adjust them if necessary to match the width of the sleeping area. They will serve as stakes, replacing the trees where you would fix your shelter, and provide the desired stability.
4. Start the Setup
Position a stick vertically, handle on the ground, and slide its tip into one of the straps at the edge of the tarp. Attach a guyline to the tip of this pole. Stretch the rope at a 45-degree angle to the opposite side to keep it in this position. Do not stretch too tightly initially, as it would hinder you from creating the second attachment point.
5. Repeat Step 4 on the Other Side of the Shelter
With the other stake correctly positioned, it gives a right-angled triangle shape to your shelter. Once both sticks are mounted and stable, stretch the ropes as tightly as possible to stiffen the shelter and make it weather-resistant.
6. Attach the Excess Tarp
Attach the tabs at the end of the free part of the tarp to the tips of the sticks.
7. Fold It Back
Bring the free part of the tarp over the stretched part: you have created an open shelter with a waterproof and insulated base.
8. An Improvised Awning
To protect yourself from the sun, use the folded part as an awning, securing it tightly at the front with other guylines, stakes...
9. Close the Shelter
You can close the shelter on three sides by fully unfolding the rest of the AWS, removing the tabs from the top of the stake. With a few elastic cords (not provided) and some pegs, keep this flap in place. Wide elastic bands can also be used. Pass them several times through the eyelets to make the attachment points stronger.
10. And Now, a Good Night's Sleep!
There you go, your shelter is built. You are protected from most weather conditions in an enclosed and mobile space. Combined with adequate sleeping gear, this tarp is versatile, usable as needed for travel, hiking, wild camping... So, it's your turn!
